F1 2010's unsolved mysteries

The 2010 Formula 1 season is fast approaching, but there remain question marks over parts of the schedule and the entry. Dieter Rencken delves into the latest speculation

There seems to be no end to the ironies in the various situations Formula 1 currently finds itself in. Take the calendar: although the 19-race fixtures list unveiled by the FIA on 22 September ranks as one of the lengthiest on record (only 2005 had as many events), three events have yet to be confirmed – potentially making the 2010 championship schedule one of the least populated in recent history despite a time span stretching from mid-March to mid-November.

The three shaky legs are, of course, the British Grand Prix, Korea's debut event and the return of F1 to Canada. Even here there are ironies: while former World War II airfield Silverstone seems a shoo-in for the British race subject to a sustainable deal being struck between the circuit and Bernie Ecclestone, he is still said to be considering Donington Park as a potential venue despite the promoting entity last week being liquidated and the place looking like a war zone.